Technology and High School Success Research - AECT in Jacksonville, FL

Sharon and I had a great time presenting our collaborative research at the Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT) Conference in November 2011 -- we traveled to Jacksonville, Florida (took us a whole day, both directions) and we got to hang out with cool folks like Rick Schwier from USask.

A Mixed Method Case Study of Student Engagement, Technology Use and High School Success

Michele Jacobsen and Sharon Friesen, University of Calgary
Jason Daniels and Stanley Varnhagen, University of Alberta

Abstract: The relationship between technology use, student engagement and high school success was examined over two years. Surveys, interviews and classroom observations with students, teachers and school leaders informed study findings. Teachers are enthusiastic about technology, but design low level, low challenge recall assignments and tests. Student interest in learning with technology is high, but engagement tends to be low. Instruction is dominated by information delivery using display technology. Teachers must create meaningful, challenging and authentic student work that integrates technology. Leaders must create a shared vision for learning with technology in high schools; Research data on learning with technology must influence decision-making and systemic change in the education system.